Picture Books
February 2026

Recent Releases
Rumpelstiltskin
by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Carson Ellis

The traditional fairy tale about a magical trickster and the woman who outwits him gets a fresh take in this retelling. Quirky humor gives the text a contemporary edge, balanced by medieval-inspired illustrations in deep, rich hues. For fans of: The Three Billy Goats Gruff, another fairy tale remix by author Mac Barnett.
 
Because of a Shoe
by Julie Fogliano; illustrated by Marla Frazee

It's a familiar scenario: a parent wants a child to put on shoes, prompting an epic tantrum. Even as patience frays on both sides, unwavering love remains beneath the conflict. Strategically colored illustrations help to convey the changing moods in this cathartic and ultimately reassuring slice of life.
 
Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories: A Tall Tale Based on the Life and Work of Zora Neale Hurston by Giselle Anatol
Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories: A Tall Tale Based on the Life and Work of Zora Neale Hurston
by Giselle Anatol

Hoping to save her mothers drought-stricken garden, imaginative Small-Girl Zora roams the town sharing her stories to gather joyous tears, only to discover that her words hold a magic all their own. Inspired by the life of author Zora Neale Hurston, include biographical note.
A Golden Eid: Festivals of the World: (A Vibrant Celebration of Muslim Traditions, Family, and Ramadan for Kids Ages 4-8) by Hiba Noor Khan
A Golden Eid: Festivals of the World: (A Vibrant Celebration of Muslim Traditions, Family, and Ramadan for Kids Ages 4-8)
by Hiba Noor Khan

An exceptional, heartfelt Eid story that gently impresses upon readers that community is about both giving and receiving. --School Library Journal (starred review) Get ready to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, commemorating the end of Ramadan, with Hafsa and her family. Hafsa and her family have spotted a crescent moon in the sky and ended their long Ramadan fast. Now they are getting ready to spend Eid with their loved ones?decorating the house, donning fancy clothes, and preparing lots of delicious food, including halwa, Hafsa's favorite sweet treat. But when her father begins giving the food away to all the neighbors, Hafsa is worried that there won't be anything left for her This warmly illustrated, heartfelt story, which centers the joys of community and sharing, includes a halwa recipe and a banner-decorating activity.
I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy
by Mychal Threets; illustrated by Lorraine Nam

In his first picture book, librarian Mychal Threets -- social media star and host of Reading Rainbow -- invites an inclusive community of kids and grown-ups to experience "library joy" through books, storytimes, games, and other activities. This warm, welcoming book is equally suited to group sharing or a one-on-on read. Read-alikes: Lisa Katzenberger's A Love Letter to My Library; Alexandra Penfold's All Are Welcome.
 
Retro Reads
Check out these awesome books from the not-so-distant past!
 
Chooch Helped
by Andrea L. Rogers; illustrated by Rebecca Lee Kunz

Sissy, an older Indigenous girl, doesn't understand why her little brother Chooch gets away with everything! His so-called "help" only messes things up. As her temper flares, Sissy's family offers support and perspective. Book buzz: Featuring textured illustrations filled with Cherokee imagery, this relatable sibling story is the winner of the 2025 Caldecott Medal, as well as the 2026 American Indian Youth Literature Award for picture books.
 
My Thoughts Have Wings
by Maggie Smith; illustrated by Leanne Hatch

When anxious thoughts flood her too-busy brain at bedtime, a child receives some helpful advice from mom: worrying is normal, but it helps to make space for happy, peaceful thoughts too. Kids (and adults) who appreciate this sweetly accessible read from poet Maggie Smith may also enjoy Whatever Comes Tomorrow by Rebecca Gardyn Levington.
 
A Pinecone!
by Helen Yoon

A dad is busy wrangling a very muddy dog, leaving his daughter free to pursue her obsession: collecting pinecones. But where can she store them all? While the slapstick humor in this story will elicit giggles, the substance will ring true for young collectors. For fans of: Off-Limits, also by Helen Yoon and featuring the same parent-child duo.
 
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
Benicia Public Library
150 East L Street, Benicia, California 94510
(707) 746-4343

https://benicialibrary.org/